Understanding Mobility Aids

As a healthcare worker, you are likely to interact with clients using mobility aids. Do you know how to appropriately care for these people and ensure they stay safe?

What are Mobility Aids?

Mobility aids help to improve the functional capacity of people who have difficulty ambulating through one or more of the following:

• Improving balance;
• Improving walking pattern;
• Increasing propulsion;
• Reducing the load on lower limbs;
• Transmitting sensory cues through the hands;
• Facilitating upright posture;
• Allowing the client to access to a variety of environments;
• Signalling to other people that the person requires special considerations; and
• Improving overall safety during independent mobilisation.